Introduction Over the years, substance abuse in the United States has become a persistent problem affecting many individuals. In 2008, it was estimated that 17.8 million Americans over the age of 18 were substance dependent (Epstein, Burns, & Conlon, 2010). Many of these affected people are nurses. Ponech (2000) stated that “approximately 10% of the nursing population has alcohol or drug abuse problems, and 6% have problems severe enough to interfere with their ability to practice” (as cited in Talbert, 2009, p .17). Studies show that nurses have a 50% higher rate of substance abuse than the rest of the public (Epstein et al., 2010). Among the many factors contributing to the problem of substance abuse among nurses, accessibility to medications in the work environment has played a significant role. Substance abuse among nurses is an emerging issue that requires attention, it is alarming to know that patient safety and care are in jeopardy when a chemically challenged nurse is on the job. Theses nurses are those who are trusted to care for the sick, but with the growing population of chemically challenged nurses, patient care is in jeopardy. Factors that contribute to substance abuse among nurses need to be further explored to combat the problem and provide better quality care to patients. Analysis There are several factors that contribute to substance abuse among nurses, such as family and stress. Nurses who have family members with emotional problems and inability to cope, alcoholism, and drug use have been linked to a higher risk of substance abuse (Talbert, 2009). Coming from a family that relies on substances causes the nurse to be chemically dependent when faced with high job demands. "Stress in the workplace...... middle of paper ......conclusion Substance abuse in the nursing field has become a serious problem. Daily exposure to medications, among other factors, has contributed to the problem of substance abuse among nurses and the impact on patient care Some may still be unaware of the substance abuse problem that nurses struggle with and do not realize it until they see the consequences on overall patient outcomes. patients and work productivity. Learning to recognize the nurse with chemical problems has allowed the healthcare industry to expand its awareness and begin to act on this problem of violating policy” (Epstein et al., 2010, p. 515 ) Hoping for change in this issue, further action continues to be a work in progress.